Tranexamic acid: what it does and when doctors prescribe it
Tranexamic acid stops bleeding by stabilising blood clots. Here's how it works, what it treats, and what to expect from this medication.
Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic medication that prevents blood clots from breaking down too quickly. It works by blocking plasmin, an enzyme that dissolves clots, which slows bleeding and helps your body maintain stable clots where bleeding is occurring.
What tranexamic acid treats
Doctors prescribe tranexamic acid for several conditions where controlling bleeding matters:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding after tooth extraction or other dental procedures
- Nosebleeds that don't respond to standard treatment
- Bleeding after trauma or surgery
- Certain types of inherited bleeding disorders
- Some cases of haemophilia
How you take it
Tranexamic acid comes as:
- Tablets (oral)
- Injections (intravenous or intramuscular)
- Topical solutions (applied directly to bleeding sites)
Dosing depends on what you're treating and which form you use. Your doctor will tell you how much to take and for how long.
What to know before taking it
Tell your doctor if you have:
- A history of blood clots or thrombosis
- Kidney disease
- Colour blindness
- Recent brain or spinal injury
Tranexamic acid can increase clot formation, which matters if you're at risk of thrombotic events. It's not suitable for everyone.
Common side effects
Most people tolerate tranexamic acid well. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in some cases, visual disturbances if you take it long term.
Talk to your doctor about whether tranexamic acid is right for your condition and what monitoring you might need.